Chateau Montelena will forever hold a special place in Napa Valley wine history after famously winning Steven Spurrier’s 1976 Paris tasting. In 2014 Matt Crafton was named winemaker there and today he maintains the heritage of this iconic producer. With a strong belief in sustainability Crafton is paving the way to the future while staying true to the legacy of Chateau Montelena. We sat down to discuss this and also to taste some delicious wine.
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Matt Crafton, Winemaker, Chateau Montelena
2011 Chateau Montelena Estate Napa Valley Chardonnay
Aromas of golden apple honeysuckle and lemon zest. Precision and depth describe this delicious, mature wine. A full weight yet still possessing lots of finesse and mouthwatering acidity. Still years left in this tasty wine from an often overlooked vintage.
SRP: $67
2016 Chateau Montelena Estate Napa Valley Chardonnay
Aromas of green apple, lemon, crushed rock and floral notes. Rich texture and complex flavors are balanced by bright acidity. Obviously made to age for a decade or more but drinking beautifully now. A stunner.
SRP: $58
2015 Chateau Montelena Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Fresh aromas of mixed red fruit and blossoming violets. This elegant wine shows a ton of restraint and elegance. Complex flavors play harmoniously with the texture and acidity of this youthful wine. A classic which will age for decades.
SRP: $175
2005 Chateau Montelena Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
Tons of floral perfume earthiness back up lovely integrated fruit. Bold tannins and still fresh acidity back up and give balance to this lovely mature wine. Drink now with a great meal and friends.
The Honest Pour with John Lenart 
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